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Q&A
I have a hernia. Will this disqualify me from passing a DOT physical?
What if I have a limb impairment? Am I disqualified?
I have a hernia. Will this disqualify me from passing a DOT physical?
If the hernia does not interfere with your operation of a commercial motor vehicle, then there is no problem.
If you have pain and are limited in some way, then you should take care of the problem before it does become a serious problem.
I had hernia surgery three years ago. There is some scar tissue which causes a little discomfort from time to time but in no way renders me unable to perform any tasks. Will this cause me to fail a DOT physical?
During the examination you will be questioned regarding the hernia surgery. Just let the medical examiner know how this effects you and whether it interferes with your daily activities. Some companies have restrictions, but this is a company policy not a DOT regulation.
I have a hernia that does not give me any trouble. The doctor I saw for my DOT exam says I have to get it repaired before my next exam. What if my regular doctor says that we can do watchful waiting instead of surgery? What are my rights under the law about this?
The DOT examiner is looking at a progressive condition, but if you will take a note from your primary doctor who has evaluated your condition and understands what you really do for a living, then the DOT examiner should consider your primary doctor’s opinion. However, the final decision to certify you, or not, remains with the medical examiner.
What if I have a limb impairment? Am I disqualified?
It is possible to apply for an exemption. FMCSA has a certificate program for drivers with limb impairments. FMCSA also has a special certification program for drivers with missing limbs. (see FMCSA Skill Performance Evaluation)
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Your comments are also welcome.
I had surgery on a torn meniscus in my knee, my company is making me get a new dot physical but my physical doesn’t expire until September, is my physical I have now still valid.
@ Tom MaC
Legally, by DOT/FMCSA regulations, no. Your medical card was invalidated at the time of the surgery. You will need to have a new medical certification examination to be legal.
Have class B lis, can I pass dot exam for medical card , on dialysis for kidney failure
@ Fred
You will fall under your states guidelines and variances, not federal DOT/FMCSA. Best to confirm with your local drivers license department before going for the medical certification examination. Make sure the medical examiner knows you are a class B cdl holder and that you fall in the states requirements, not federal.
Just had my fourth shoulder surgery replacement. Everything is finally healing up and doing well. I have 1 more month before being release from my doctors care. The new joint will cause me to not be able hold my arm straight up above my head. I can drive and still do things pretty much normal, just some things having to them a little different now. Will this effect me passing a D.O.T. physical in general.
@ Tim
As long as you can perform the duties of a cmv operator, you will be fine. When you get your release top return to work, watch for restrictions and limitations. The CME must take this into consideration.
I have had 4 back surgeries and l am fused all my lumbar is fused and have nerve damage in both of my legs and drop foot in both feet I have to where foot braces on both feet so l can kinda walk. Would I still qualify for my medical card renewal?
@ Danny
For a class A interstate cdl, you will have difficulty passing the medical certification examination. Lesser class cdl holders or intra-state only will fall under the states guidelines and variances.
I just had plates and screws put in my ankle I get the cast off in three weeks with that affect me from getting my dot card so I can go over the road
@ Richard
Once fully released to return to work, without restrictions or limitations, you will be fine. As long as you are fully able to perform the duties of a CMV operator.
I have Degenerative Disk Disease in my L-1, L-3 and L-4 I’m trying to find out if will be able to renew my DOT physical in February 2023 for my CDL class A?
@ Donna H
Unless the condition creates problems which interfere with your ability to operate a cmv, it should not be an issue.
Thank you!
@ Donna H
You are welcome.
How long must I wait after spinal fusion surgery and my surgeon has released me to return to work?
Thanks,
Tom
@ Tom N
Once fully healed and released to return to work, without restrictions or limitations, you should be good to go.
Can you pass a DOT physical with your big toe missing
@ Jim
Yes, if it does not interfere with your abilities to operate a CMV.
Can I drive with a spinal cord stimulator
@ John F
Much depends on the class cdl you hold.
I tore a couple tendons in a finger and it closed on me. It is stuck at a 90 degree angle. Will this affect my class A interstate?
@ Rob
Only if you no longer can maintain a grip within your hand.
Did your finger cause any issues with your physical or license?